At what WBGT temperature should outdoor sessions and outdoor physical conditioning be stopped?

The correct temperature at which outdoor sessions and physical conditioning should be halted is above 90 degrees on the Wet Bulb Globe Temperature (WBGT) scale. This threshold is critical for ensuring the safety and health of athletes because the WBGT takes into account heat, humidity, wind speed, and radiant heat, offering a comprehensive view of the heat stress an individual may face during physical activity.

When temperatures exceed 90 degrees, the risk of heat-related illnesses, such as heat exhaustion or heat stroke, significantly increases. At this level, the body's ability to cool itself through sweating becomes compromised, leading to potentially dangerous physiological responses. Monitoring these conditions is essential for trainers to protect athletes from heat stress, which can have serious health implications.

Understanding these thresholds helps trainers and coaches implement guidelines for outdoor activity, ensuring that proper hydration and rest periods are enforced when conditions are unsafe. It promotes the well-being of athletes by making informed decisions about when to modify or cease practices in extreme heat.